How To Install Weeping Tile
Installing weeping tile, also known as a perimeter drain or a French drain, is a common way to manage water and moisture around a foundation or in a low-lying area of a property. Here is a general outline of the steps involved in installing weeping tile:
Determine the layout: The first step is to determine the layout of the weeping tile system. This involves deciding on the location of the inlet and outlet, as well as the overall path of the weeping tile.
Excavate the area: Next, you'll need to excavate the area where the weeping tile will be installed. This typically involves digging a trench around the perimeter of the foundation or in the low-lying area. The trench should be at least 18 inches deep and wide enough to accommodate the weeping tile. When installing around a foundation, the recommended position of the weeping tile should be as follows: the top of the weeping tile is the same depth as the bottom of the basement slab.
Install the weeping tile: Once the trench is dug, you can begin installing the weeping tile. Start by laying the inlet pipe at the highest point of the trench. Then, lay the weeping tile along the bottom of the trench, making sure to slope it downward towards the outlet pipe. *Be sure to check local laws about where to discharge the run off water, and if a permit is required.*
You can secure the weeping tile in place with stakes or by covering it with gravel.
Install the inlet pipe: Once the weeping tile is in place, you can install the inlet pipe. This pipe should be placed at the highest point of the trench and should be connected to the outlet pipe using a T-fitting or a Y-fitting where necessary.
Backfill the trench: Once the outlet pipe is in place, you can begin backfilling the trench. Make sure to fill the trench with drainage gravel (sometimes called ¾ crushed stone/clear stone or something similar) to allow water to drain properly. Finally, cover the stone with geotextile filter cloth so less fines get washed in the drainage stone and cover the trench with soil and tamp it down to ensure that it is properly compacted.
Final Note About Installing Weeping Tile:
It's important to note that installing weeping tile can be a complex and labour-intensive process, and it's generally recommended to hire a professional contractor to handle the installation. A professional will have the necessary equipment and experience to ensure that the weeping tile is installed correctly and that it functions properly, you wouldn’t want to have to dig everything back up again in order to reposition the pipe. Final note, use the perforated weeping tile with a filter sock included on the roll for added protection.